Duck, North Carolina CAMA CORE land use plan

Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Table of Contents
Duck, North Carolina i Community Planning Collaborative
DUCK, NORTH CAROLINA
~2003-2004 CAMA CORE LAND USE PLAN~
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents ...................................................................................... i
List of Exhibits ............................................................................................v
List of Appendices .................................................................................... vii
Executive Summary ................................................................................. viii
PHASE I
Chapter I: Introduction
A. This is Duck, North Carolina ............................................... I-1
B. Purpose and Authority to Plan ............................................. I-1
C. Planning Methodology........................................................ I-3
D. Citizen Participation and Intergovernmental Coordination ...... I-3
Chapter II: Concerns and Aspirations
A. Existing and Emerging Conditions....................................... II-1
1. Population Changes ............................................... II-2
2. Housing Trends ...................................................... II-2
3. Land Development.................................................. II-2
4. Water Quality ........................................................ II-2
5. Economic Conditions .............................................. II-3
6. Natural Resource Related Industries.......................... II-3
7. Transportation ........................................................ II-3
8. Potable Water ........................................................ II-3
9. Public Policies ........................................................ II-4
10. Public Safety........................................................... II-4
B. Management Topics and Issues, Problems, and Assets.......... II-4
1. Atlantic Ocean Shoreline......................................... II-5
2. Beach Driving......................................................... II-6
3. Beach Re-nourishment and Maintenance .................. II-6
4. Commercial Development ....................................... II-7
5. Community Appearance.......................................... II-7
6. Currituck Sound Shoreline ....................................... II-7
7. Development Design Standards................................ II-8
8. Duck Trail .............................................................. II-8
9. Federal Properties .................................................. II-9
10. Infrastructure Carrying Capacity and Provision of
Public Facilities and Services .................................... II-9
11. Intergovernmental Relations................................... II-10
12. Land Use Compatibility ......................................... II-10
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13. Natural Hazard Areas ........................................... II-11
14. Overhead Utility Lines ........................................... II-11
15. Parking and Loading/Off-loading Areas.................. II-11
16. Public Access ....................................................... II-12
17. Public Safety......................................................... II-12
18. Redevelopment..................................................... II-13
19. Residential Development ....................................... II-13
20. Septic Tank Use.................................................... II-13
21. Sexually Oriented Businesses ................................. II-14
22. Solid Waste Management...................................... II-15
23. Storm Water Management..................................... II-15
24. Tourism ............................................................... II-16
25. Town Commons Areas .......................................... II-16
26. Transportation ...................................................... II-16
27. Uses of and Activities In and On Ocean
and Sound Waters ................................................ II-17
28. Water Quality ...................................................... II-17
C. Town Vision.................................................................... II-18
1. Desired General Physical Appearance and Form ..... II-19
2. General Land Use Plan Objectives ......................... II-19
Chapter III: Population, Housing, and Economy
A. Introduction..................................................................... III-1
B. Population....................................................................... III-1
C. Housing .......................................................................... III-4
D. Economy......................................................................... III-7
Chapter IV: Natural Systems
A. Natural Features .............................................................. IV-1
1. Areas of Environmental Concerns (AEC)
and Environmentally Fragile Areas........................... IV-1
2. Soil Characteristics ................................................ IV-2
3. Flood and Other Natural Hazard Areas ................... IV-3
4. Storm Surge Areas ................................................. IV-3
5. Non-Coastal Wetlands and Probable 404 Wetlands . IV-3
B. Environmental Conditions Composite ................................ IV-4
C. Environmental Conditions Assessment ................................ IV-6
1. Water Quality ....................................................... IV-6
a. Surface Water Quality ................................. IV-6
b. Shellfish Waters......................................... IV-13
c. Chronic Wastewater Treatment
System Malfunctions .................................. IV-14
d. Public Health Hazards................................ IV-14
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2. Natural Hazards .................................................. IV-14
a. Storm Hazards and Floods and
Wind Damage Estimates ............................ IV-14
b. Shoreline Erosion ...................................... IV-14
3. Natural Resources ............................................... IV-15
a. Natural Heritage Areas .............................. IV-15
b. Mineral Resource Areas and
Productive Soils ......................................... IV-16
Chapter V: Land Use and Development
A. Existing Land Use .............................................................. V-1
1. Land Use Categories............................................... V-1
2. Land Area Allocated to Each Land Use ..................... V-3
3. Land Use Conflicts and
Land Use – Water Quality Conflicts .......................... V-3
B. Development Trends and Projected Development Areas........ V-4
C. Projections of Future Land Needs........................................ V-4
Chapter VI: Town Facilities
A. Water Supply and Wastewater Treatment Systems ............... VI-1
B. Transportation Systems ..................................................... VI-3
C. Storm Water Systems ........................................................ VI-4
D. Other Facilities ................................................................ VI-5
Chapter VII: Land Suitability Analysis
A. Land Suitability Analysis Process………………………………VII-1
B. Characteristics of Land Suitable for Development..………….VII-2
C. Development Suitability Factors…....…………………………VII-2
D. Relative Importance of Land Suitability Factors and
Land Suitability Rating…………………………………………VII-3
E. Land Suitability Analysis Map…………..……………………. VII-4
Chapter VIII: Review of Current CAMA Land Use Plan Affecting Duck……VIII-1
PHASE II
Chapter IX: Plan for the Future
A. Introduction…. ................................................................ IX-1
B. Management Topics and Local Areas of Concern ............... IX-1
C. Goals, Objectives, and Policies ……………………………...IX-3
1. Introduction…………………………………………….IX-3
2. Issue Areas’ Goals, Objectives, and Policies............. IX-4
D. Future Land Use………………………………………………IX-29
1. Land Classification Scheme....................................IX-29
2. Future Land Use Map............................................IX-30
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E. Policy Analysis................................................................IX-33
1. Consistency With Management Topics……………..IX-33
a. Consistency of Town Goals With
Management Topics…………………………IX-33
b. General Direction of Policies………………..IX-38
c. Consistency of Future Land Use Map and
Land Use Plan Requirements………………..IX-41
2. Impact of Town Policies on Management Topics…..IX-42
Chapter X: Tools for Managing Development
A. Guide for Land Use Decision-Making ................................. X-1
B. Existing Development Management Program ....................... X-3
C. Additional Tools.............................................................. X-10
1. Ordinances.......................................................... X-10
2. Capital Improvements Program.............................. X-11
3. Acquisition Program.............................................. X-11
4. Specific Projects to Reach Goals ............................ X-11
D. Action Plan and Schedule ................................................ X-12
Workshops and Meetings…………………………………………………….WS-1
Sources Consulted………….................................................................SC-1
Index…………………………………………………………………………...IN-1
Appendices……………………………………………………………………AP-1
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Table of Contents
Duck, North Carolina v Community Planning Collaborative
LIST OF EXHIBITS
Page No.
Chapter I: Introduction
Exhibit I-A Duck, North Carolina Regional Setting................................. I-2
Chapter III: Population, Housing, and Economy
Exhibit III-A Duck, North Carolina Selected Population Characteristics
of Dare County Census Tract 9701, Block Group 1. ........... III-2
Exhibit III-B Duck, North Carolina Estimated Peak Seasonal Population.. III-3
Exhibit III-C Duck, North Carolina Vacant and Improved Lots –
Recorded Subdivisions ...................................................... III-6
Chapter IV: Natural Systems
Exhibit IV-A Duck, North Carolina Interpretation of Natural Features
Development Compatibility ............................................... IV-4
Exhibit IV-B Duck, North Carolina Composite Natural Features
Analysis………................................................................ IV-5
Exhibit IV-C Duck, North Carolina Composite Environmental
Conditions Map............................................................... IV-7
Exhibit IV-D Duck, North Carolina Use Support Ratings (2000)
For Monitored and Evaluated Streams (miles) in
Pasquotank River Sub-basin 03-01-56............................... IV-9
Exhibit IV-E Duck, North Carolina Long Term Annual Shoreline
Change Rates Update Through 1992 .............................. IV-16
Chapter V: Land Use and Development
Exhibit V-A Duck, North Carolina Existing Land Use Categories ............. V-1
Exhibit V-B Duck, North Carolina Existing Land Use and Community
Facilities…….................................................................... V-2
Exhibit V-C Duck, North Carolina Existing Land Use Tabulations
(Estimate)……. .................................................................V-3
Chapter VII: Land Suitability Analysis
Exhibit VII-A Duck, North Carolina Relative Importance of Land
Suitability Factors ............................................................ VII-5
Exhibit VII-B Duck, North Carolina Relative Development Suitability
Ratings……… ................................................................ VII-6
Exhibit VII-C Duck, North Carolina Land Suitability Analysis Map………. VII-7
Chapter VIII: Review of Current CAMA Land Use Plan Affecting Duck
Exhibit VIII-A Duck, North Carolina Excerpt from 2002-2003 Dare
County CAMA Land Use Plan Update – Evaluation of
Existing Land Use Plan………………………………………..VIII-2
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Chapter IX: Plan for the Future
Exhibit IX-A Duck, North Carolina Summary of Land Use Plan
Management Topics......................................................... IX-2
Exhibit IX-B Duck, North Carolina Future Land Use Map..................... IX-32
Exhibit IX-C Duck, North Carolina Future Land Use Totals ................... IX-33
Exhibit IX-D Duck, North Carolina Consistency Review – Duck Goals
and Management Topics ................................................ IX-34
Exhibit IX-E Duck, North Carolina General Direction of Town
Policies………………………………………………………..IX-38
Exhibit IX-F Duck, North Carolina Policy Analysis Matrix – Town
Policies as Beneficial, Neutral, or Detrimental To State
Management Topic Benchmarks…………………………….IX-43
Chapter X: Tools for Managing Development
Exhibit X-A Duck, North Carolina Action Plan and Schedule ................ X-13
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Table of Contents
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LIST OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1 Dare County Water System Serving Duck, NC....................... A1-1
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Table of Contents
Duck, North Carolina v ii i Community Planning Collaborative
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
• In November 2001, the voters in Duck voted to incorporate and become Dare
County’s sixth municipality. On May 1, 2002, Duck officially became a town.
• The Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan (the Plan) is the Town’s first
independent land use plan. Before this effort, Duck had been included in land
use plan(s) developed by Dare County.
• The Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 (CAMA) establishes a cooperative
program between local governments and the State. Land use planning lies at
the center of local government’s involvement. Land Use Planning Guidelines
were adopted by the State to help localities prepare local plans. Duck’s land
use plan, when reviewed and certified by the North Carolina Coastal
Resources Commission (CRC), will become part of the North Carolina Coastal
Management Plan for the protection, preservation, orderly development, and
management of the coastal area of North Carolina.
• Land use planning is one of the ways a community looks into the future. The
land use plan will look ahead to the next 10 to 20 years. It will be reviewed
and updated every five years.
• Duck, while recognized by many people as a slow paced, coastal village and
family oriented vacation destination, is also a vibrant and growing community
in terms of both permanent and seasonal population. With just over 500
permanent residents, the Town’s peak population during the summer grows to
nearly 15,000. Indications are that Duck, like its Outer Banks neighbors, will
likely see increases in its permanent population as well.
• The Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan is one of the major tools
Duck will use to manage growth and development. The Plan will help the
Town ensure that new development and new land uses, as well as
redevelopment initiatives, are compatible with its coastal village atmosphere
and with the desires and aspirations of its residents and property owners. The
Plan will help the Town plan for essential services to meet the needs of its
permanent and seasonal population. Moreover, the Plan will help Duck
protect the essential coastal resources that help define the community’s life
style.
• The Plan will provide a solid foundation for day-to-day and long range
functions. Day-to-day functions relate to the Town’s administration of its
growth and development management ordinances and guidelines, and the
public’s understanding and use of these tools for decisions regarding their own
property with respect to land use and development. For the Planning Board
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and Town Council, the Plan will be a policy and decision guide on matters
concerning land use and development in Duck. The policies, objectives, and
future land use map included in the Plan will help guide Duck’s decisions
about ordinances and policies such as the zoning ordinance and development
design guidelines. The Plan will also be used as the Town Council makes
decisions on the Town’s capital and annual operating budgets and the
allocation of financial and personnel resources.
• The Town’s residents and property owners played a major role in the
development of the Plan, its goals, policies, and objectives, and the future land
use map. The Town, and the planning process, benefited greatly from the
efforts of an appointed Land Use Plan Committee which was available for
meetings on a monthly basis for nearly two years beginning in early 2003
through the end of 2004. All Committee meetings were open to the public. In
addition, opportunities for citizens to participate in the planning process
included: an initial public input session; community open houses and public
input sessions; Town Council and Planning Board meetings; presentations at
neighborhood and civic association meetings; and, distribution of a community
questionnaire. The questionnaire, which was distributed at public sessions and
at neighborhood and civic association meetings, was also posted on the
Town’s web site. The Town also posted the Plan on its website, made review
copies available to the public, and distributed copies to neighboring localities.
• The Plan was developed in two phases. Phase I consists of two basic
components:
1. Description of Town concerns and aspirations and a Town planning vision.
Analyzes the growth and development issues in Duck that emerged during
the citizen participation process. Describes a planning vision for the Town
that provides a foundation for effective land use and development goals,
policies, and objectives.
2. Analysis of existing and emerging trends. Provides the technical basis for
policy development: trends and forecasts of population, housing, and local
economy. Discusses opportunities and limitations presented by the Town’s
natural systems as well as its assets and some of the resources Duck may
use to meet its goals. Examines existing land uses and recent trends and
provides information on community facilities. An analysis of land suitability
for development synthesizes the information contained in the chapters
comprising this component.
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• Phase II of the Plan also consists of two basic components:
1. Land use goals, policies, and objectives. The Town’s land use and
development goals, policies, and objectives are found in Chapter IX Plan
for the Future. Goals, policies, and objectives for twenty-eight (28) issue
areas evolved from the Town’s planning vision and provide direction for
implementing the Plan. The Plan’s issue areas include five management
topics identified by the CRC (Public Access, Land Use Compatibility,
Infrastructure Carrying Capacity, Natural Hazard Areas, and Water
Quality). The Plan’s issue areas also include twenty-three local areas of
concern regarding ocean and sound shoreline management, development
and redevelopment activities, community appearance, community
infrastructure, public health and safety, transportation, parks and trails, and
tourism. The land use and development goals and policies related to these
issues provide guidance on decisions, programs, initiatives, and projects to
help the Town implement the Plan.
2. Tools for managing development. This Phase II component identifies tools
for managing development. It outlines Duck’s strategies and action plan
for implementing the Plan’s policies: development and/or amendment of
ordinances; implementation (or continuance) of land use and development
related programs and initiatives; capital investments; and, funding
resources to achieve identified goals.
• The Plan includes an analysis to determine the consistency of Duck’s land use
policies and the future land use map with the goals of the Coastal Area
Management Act and the Coastal Resources Commission’s land use
management topics. The analysis concludes that there is a high level of
consistency.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter I
Duck, North Carolina - Community Planning Collaborative
Chapter I: Introduction
A. This is Duck, North Carolina
In November 2001, the voters of Duck voted to incorporate and become Dare County’s
sixth municipality. On May 1, 2002, the Town of Duck officially became a town. Duck is
located in the northernmost part of Dare County and borders the Town of Southern
Shores, Currituck County, the Currituck Sound, and the Atlantic Ocean. Access to Duck
is via NC 12 which is also called Duck Road within the Town limits. See EXHIBIT I-A. The
Town contains 2.32 square miles and is about 6 miles in length. The Town enjoys a
reputation as a cottage community, appealing to tens of thousands of tourists yearly, and
about 450 permanent residents.
The Town is preparing its first CAMA land use plan, having been included previously in
the plan(s) developed by Dare County. The Town uses a Council-Manager form of
government. The Town hired its first manager in November 2002, its first chief of police in
February 2003, and its planning director in May 2003.
B. Purpose and Authority to Plan
The Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 (CAMA) establishes a cooperative program
of coastal area management between local governments and the State. Land use
planning lies at the center of local government’s involvement. Subchapter 7B – Land Use
Planning Guidelines of the North Carolina Administrative Code, October 1989 (revised in
2003), were promulgated for the purpose of assisting localities with the preparation of
land use plans and sets forth standards for their review. Land use plans are submitted for
State review and certification. The land use plan, when certified by the North Carolina
Coastal Resources Commission (CRC), will become part of the North Carolina Coastal
Management Plan for the protection, preservation, orderly development, and
management of the coastal area of North Carolina.
Land use planning is one of the ways a community looks into the future to determine what
it wants to be and what it wants to look like. The land use plan will look ahead to the
next 10 to 20 years. It will be updated every five years. One of the key elements of the
plan is citizen participation. This ensures that the plan is truly designed by the community
for the community.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter I
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A land use plan can describe how a community desires to develop physically,
economically, and socially. The plan functions much like a road map, conveying to
community leaders citizens’ plans and hopes for the future of the community. It also
conveys to the regional community how the town’s citizens and leaders expect to help
shape the future of the Town.
The land use plan includes a discussion of Town concerns and aspirations and existing
and emerging conditions. The State requires discussion of locally identified issues and
problems and assets the Town may face or use to achieve its goals. The land use plan
includes discussion of population, housing, and economy as well as natural systems and
existing land use and development. The land use plan also examines a variety of
environmental issues which impact development patterns and Town facilities. The land
use plan also plans for the future, spelling out Town land use and development goals and
policies. It also specifies tools the Town will use to manage growth and development and
craft its future physical appearance and form.
C. Planning Methodology
The Duck Land Use Plan Committee (Committee) serves as the body responsible for
guiding the CAMA land use plan development effort. The Committee receives assistance
from the Town Manager and the planning consulting firm Community Planning
Collaborative, Inc.
The Committee meets on a monthly basis or as needed throughout the project period on
the first Friday of each month. Meetings are held at the Duck Town Offices in the Council
Meeting Room in Duck 10:00 a.m. Meetings are open to the public and meeting times
are advertised in the local news media. In addition to a Committee orientation meeting
and an initial public information meeting, subsequent meetings of the Committee focus
on review and discussion of information gathered and analyses made. The Committee
reviews draft materials prepared by the planning consultant, assists in defining land use
and development issues and concerns, and provides general input.
D. Citizen Participation and Intergovernmental Coordination
According to 15 A NCAC Subchapter 7L, local governments receiving Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) funding for CAMA land use plan preparation,
must develop and implement a citizen participation plan. Local governments employ a
variety of educational efforts and participation techniques to assure that all
socioeconomic segments of the community and non-resident property owners have
opportunities to participate during CAMA land use plan development. Examples are
surveys or questionnaires, informational brochures or materials, community outreach, and
public information meetings.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter I
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At the start of CAMA land use plan development, the Town Council adopted a citizen
participation plan. Interested citizens have opportunities to participate in the development
of the CAMA land use plan through oral and written comments as provided for in the
citizen participation plan. Copies of informational materials are made available at all
meetings of the Land Use Plan Committee. The citizen participation plan is available for
public review throughout the planning process.
The Town recognizes that citizen participation and citizen education must be made
available on a continuing basis. During and after the CAMA land use plan project, the
Town would like to educate citizens with respect to the importance of land use planning
and its effect of their quality of life; listen to citizens concerning issues important to them;
create opportunities to collaborate with citizens to achieve community consensus; and,
create a base of citizen support for implementing the land use plan.
Copies of the draft land use plan were provided for review and comment to Dare County,
Currituck County, and the town of Southern Shores. Written comments from Dare County
were received. Dare County’s comments relative to development along ocean and sound
areas were noted and discussed as a part of the planning process. Many of the County’s
suggestions/issue areas will be addressed further as the Town develops ocean and sound
side zoning overlays. Also, the Town will develop a hazard mitigation plan with a debris
management element during the planning period. No other written comments were
received within the specified 45-day review period. Municipal planners from many of the
Outer Banks communities meet monthly to discuss regional issues. No jurisdictional
issues relative to the land use plan have been identified.
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Chapter II: Concerns and Aspirations
This chapter provides general guidance and direction for the development of the Duck
Land Use Plan. Determining concerns and aspirations is one of the points where the
Town’s citizen participation process is directly linked to the land use planning process.
The citizen participation plan provides opportunities for stakeholders to express their
concerns and aspirations. Assessing Duck’s concerns and aspirations includes the
identification of existing and emerging conditions and key issues important to the Town.
Several issues--labeled by the State as management topics--must also be addressed
according to CAMA guidelines.
The vision statement is also a major component of the planning process. The vision
depicts in words what Duck is striving to become and serves as the starting point for the
creation (and implementation) of the land use plan. It recognizes trends and driving
forces that will affect the Town during the planning period and acknowledges the
concerns, opinions, and values identified by stakeholders and citizens. Vision statements
blend priority issues, driving forces, citizen values, and the preferences of the Town. The
vision helps to guide the development of the planning information base, short-term and
long-term policies, the future land use plan map, and the plan’s implementation
strategies. The vision also helps in describe the desired general physical appearance and
form Duck will take and forms the basis of the Town’s land use plan objectives.
A. Existing and Emerging Conditions
Some of the central issues influencing this land use plan and some of the dominant
growth related conditions that influence land use, development, water quality, and other
environmental concerns include: continuing pressure by the development community for
greater development densities (oversized single-family dwellings), public open space,
storm water management, beach erosion and dune loss, beach nourishment and dune
stabilization, provision of public accesses and related parking facilities, the proposed mid-
Currituck County bridge, and ensuring the present alignment of NC 12 through Duck.
Residential growth in Duck has continued at a steady pace since over the last ten years.
Since 1990, the percentage of year-round residents--as opposed to seasonal residents--
has risen slightly and thus the number of seasonal use structures has decreased.
Residential and commercial growth in Duck has continued at a steady pace.
Descriptions of existing and emerging conditions follow. These broad themes and trends
provided background and context for the identification of planning issues discussed later
in this chapter.
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Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
1. Population Changes
Dramatic population fluctuations in Duck and the surrounding region occur as tourists
continue annual migrations to the area. Many observers feel that the total number of
visitors is increasing annually and that the summer season is not the only time Duck and
the rest of the Outer Banks are seeing large numbers of visitors. To many, the traditional
ten week summer tourist period now extends from the spring to Thanksgiving. Increasing
numbers of tourists can impact infrastructure and service delivery systems. Management
of resources such as water, open space, and the Duck Trail can become more
complicated as more persons use facilities.
2. Housing Trends
Housing patterns and types are generally established in Duck and the region. There are
still multiple isolated lots remaining throughout Town, although land prices have risen
dramatically. Single family detached homes still represent the vast majority of housing
found in Duck and the region. Housing values continue to increase. Demand for
housing is high while there is limited availability, particularly in the medium price ranges.
Also, the construction of private (residential) swimming pools continues to increase,
particularly as a part of new construction.
3. Land Development
Land development in Duck and the region could potentially exceed the capability of the
land to support it. There are still some building lots in various areas of Town and a
couple of isolated 2-3 acre tracts of undeveloped land. The residential development
pattern for Duck Village is established and redevelopment proposals may be the wave of
the future. While commercial areas are also established in the Duck Village area, there
are more than a few isolated commercial areas in Duck along NC 12.
4. Water Quality
In Duck and the region, water quality protection and issues related to uses that could
negatively impact water quality continue to be at the fore front. Contamination from
storm water runoff and/or septic tank system problems or failures is a threat. Weather
influenced changes in water quality can occur. Consistent methods of measuring changes
and fluctuations are needed. Currently, Dare County monitors Sound waters once a
month. Some people in Duck feel more frequent monitoring is needed.
The pros and cons associated with the development of a central (public) sewage
collection and treatment system are discussed from time to time in Outer Banks
communities. On the Outer Banks, the current level of use and dependence on septic
tank systems serves to limit development in some areas (due to poor soils and costs
associated with making the systems work properly). In effect, the lack of a central system
is a growth management tool for some localities. The presence of a central system could
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Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
potentially open up some additional areas to development and increase pressure on
infrastructure systems. The monetary cost of developing a central system would be
substantial. The potential benefits to the environment of such a system must also be
weighed.
5. Economic Conditions
Generally, the economic condition and outlook in Duck and the region is very positive.
Duck businesses appear to be successful if not thriving. Employee turnover in shops and
eateries does not appear to be an issue as it may be in some Outer Banks jurisdictions.
6. Natural Resource Related Industries
Duck’s natural resources feature the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound. Businesses
(supply and rental shops) which cater to the use and enjoyment of these resources are
found in Town and throughout the region. Business activities in Duck are characterized by
their stability, diversity, and down-home feel.
7. Transportation
Traffic and transportation issues revolve around NC 12 and the intense development
occurring north of Duck which contributes to increasing traffic through Town. The lack of
parking and load/off-load areas contribute to safety and economic concerns in Duck.
Shops in Duck Village and The Sanderling attract many vehicles. Pedestrian-vehicular
interaction occurs at these and other areas throughout Town. The construction of a
bridge connecting the Currituck County mainland to its beaches will maintain the integrity
and vitality of Duck while providing safe and efficient access to areas north of Duck. This,
and perhaps maintenance of the status quo are viewed by some people in Duck as the
scenarios that will preserve the character of the Town. The widening and/or realigning
NC 12 would significantly damage and perhaps effectively end the essence and character
of Duck as a village -- now enjoyed by hundreds or residents, thousands of property
owners, and tens of thousands of visitors.
8. Potable Water
Potable water is supplied to Duck through the Dare County water system. At the time of
this writing, no formal contract has been executed between the Town and Dare County for
supplying potable water. Many people cite the over use of water by Duck residents and
visitors and the lack of conservation practices as problems that need to be addressed.
Wastewater is removed through septic tank systems. No plans to construct a central
sewer system (collecting and treating waste at a central plant) have been developed.
Duck should continually evaluate its options with respect to the provision of potable water
and participate and partner in any proposed plans to tap heretofore untapped resources
with its borders. When practicable, the Town should work with Dare County and
Currituck County with respect to the provision of potable water.
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Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
9. Public Policies
Through July 1, 2003, Dare County assisted Duck with general planning duties. The
Town now has a planning director and its own zoning ordinance and is actively updating
and adopting ordinances and studying preferences with respect to other public policies to
control its own fate. The land use plan process will allow the Town to reassess its future
land use which will in turn lead to zoning ordinance reassessment and the study of
mechanisms such as design standards and the requirement of smart growth practices in
development and redevelopment proposals. Storm water management is problematic in
Duck and the region generally. A storm water management plan, perhaps on a multi-jurisdictional
scale is needed. The Town should examine its options with respect to
implementing a recycling program. The Town should also study its options with respect to
the acquisition of Federal properties that may become available and with respect to
acceptance of private lands donated for public purposes.
10. Public Safety
Public safety issues in Duck primarily revolve around the transportation system, most
importantly NC 12 and dead end private roads that are found throughout the Town. In
addition to NC 12, there were only seventeen state roads in the Town as of July 1, 2002.
Neighborhoods served by private roads can request that the Duck Police Department
enforce motor vehicle violations but other-wise, police patrols do not enforce such
violations on private roads. Widening NC 12 is not supported and the mid-county bridge
is, at best, years away. Duck has the benefit of its own police force and is served by an
excellent volunteer fire department. Education of visitors concerning local laws and
practices will also help with some safety issues. However, the geography of Duck, with
NC 12 being the only through transportation artery will continue to result in traffic conflict
situations.
B. Management Topics and Issues, Problems, and Assets
CAMA guidelines require a description of land use and development related issues in
terms of the Coastal Resources Commission’s major management topics: public access,
land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities
and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality. Growth and development related
issues identified by the Town should be cognizant of these management topics. Issues
identified by Duck include:
Atlantic Ocean Shoreline
Beach Driving
Beach Re-nourishment and Maintenance
Commercial Development
Community Appearance
Currituck Sound Shoreline
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Development Design Standards
Duck Trail
Federal Properties
Intergovernmental Relations
Overhead Utility Lines
Parking and Loading/Off-loading Areas
Public Safety
Redevelopment
Residential Development
Septic Tank Use
Sexually Oriented Businesses
Solid Waste Management
Storm Water Management
Tourism
Town Commons Area
Transportation
Uses of and Activities In and On Ocean and Sound Waters
Management topics and Town issues are examined relative to problems or obstacles that
may prevent the Town from achieving goals. Problem statements are not intended to
state or imply solutions; that comes later in the planning process. Issues are also
examined relative to assets that may be available to Duck to assist it in addressing its
goals. Assets are opportunities or resources (features, facilities, organizations, and
programs) that can be cited by the plan to help the Town address its goals.
1. Atlantic Ocean Shoreline
The issue facing the Town is how to preserve and protect this resource and ensure future
generations are able to enjoy its beauty and bounty and can continue to use the beach
and water for active and passive recreation and leisure activities. This issue is related to
the following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility,
infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural
hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) resources (technical and financial); magnitude of effort required to
police, manage, preserve, and protect the ocean beach and waters; and, degradation of
the resource resulting from litter, pollution, and undesirable activities conducted on and
off-shore.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
State, County, and Federal agencies, programs, and regulations are the main assets
available to the Town to address this issue. The Town will enforce its ordinance
prohibiting beach fires and open burning.
2. Beach Driving
The issue facing the Town is how to regulate beach driving. This issue is related to the
following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure
carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas,
and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
The Town should not encounter problems or obstacles addressing this issue.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
The Town will rely on its police department to enforce the beach driving ordinance thereby
addressing this issue. The make-up of beach sand in the Duck area is largely shale which
does makes beach driving more treacherous and serves to deter some drivers who might
otherwise drive on the beach.
3. Beach Re-nourishment and Maintenance
The issue facing the Town is staying informed and involved relative to Federal, State,
and/or regional studies and initiatives concerning beach re-nourishment and
maintenance. This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public
access, land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public
facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
The Town should not encounter problems or obstacles addressing this issue.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens and local elected and appointed leadership will assist the Town as it monitors
beach re-nourishment studies and initiatives.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
4. Commercial Development
The issue facing the Town is how to support and direct the placement of commercial
development in areas zoned for such activities and to encourage local support and
patronage of Town businesses. This issue is related to the following State management
topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and
provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Business closures/failures; divergent/conflicting interests within the business community;
and, local, regional, and/or national economic downturns.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, and the business community will work
together to address this issue.
5. Community Appearance
The issue facing the town is how to remain aesthetically pleasing while maintaining its
coastal village image and charm. This issue is related to the following State management
topic(s): land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public
facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue:
Lack of development design standards; private initiatives that may be contrary to Town
goals and efforts; and, lack of local (Town) financial and technical resources.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, community civic and business
associations and interests groups, and the development community will work together to
address this issue. The Town will acquire technical expertise as it develops its staff and
will use its police powers to ensure desirable development patterns in Town.
6. Currituck Sound Shoreline
The issue facing the Town is how to preserve, protect, and enhance this resource and
ensure future generations are able to enjoy its beauty and bounty and can continue to use
it for passive and active recreation and leisure activities. This issue is related to the
following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure
carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas,
and water quality.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) financial and technical resources; magnitude of effort required to
police, manage, preserve, and protect the Sound’s shoreline and waters; degradation of
the resource resulting from litter, pollution, and undesirable activities conducted on and
off-shore; and, Sound erosion
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
State and Federal agencies, programs, and regulations are the main assets available to
the Town to address this issue. The introduction of grasses and other natural stabilizing
treatments may help the situation.
7. Development Design Standards
The issue facing the Town is how to develop and utilize development design standards to
continue and enhance its desired development character. This issue is related to the
following State management topic(s): land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying
capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water
quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) technical resources; and, private initiatives that may be contrary to
Town goals and efforts.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, and the development community will
work together to address this issue. The Town will acquire technical expertise as it
develops its staff and will use its police powers to ensure desirable development in Town.
8. Duck Trail
The issue facing the Town is how to continue to maintain and enhance the Duck Trail to
provide pedestrians and cyclists a safe alternative to walking and riding on public and
private roads and to encourage the Trail’s use. This issue is related to the following State
management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying
capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water
quality.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
User apathy, ignorance, or contempt for established safety guidelines; funding for
maintenance and major repairs if needed; and, increased traffic along NC 12 and
potential for accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens (particularly Duck Trail volunteers), community civic and business associations
and interest groups, homeowners associations, elected and appointed leadership, the
North Carolina Department of Transportation, and the business community will work
together to address this issue. Federal programs for drainage studies and improvements
are available to the Town.
9. Federal Properties
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure that Federal properties are
used in ways that are consistent with the Town’s established growth patterns and image
and to ensure that the Town has the opportunity to purchase all of part of Federal
properties within its borders for use as a commons area or for other public uses. This
issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public access, land use
compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and
services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Potential for Federal decision makers to disregard or act contrary to Town goals and
efforts, if/when properties are being considered for land use changes or during program
development and implementation.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, community civic and business associations and interest groups, local elected and
appointed leadership, and State and Federal elected representatives will work together to
address this issue.
10. Infrastructure Carrying Capacity and Provision of Public Facilities
and Services
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure that public systems and services are sized,
located, and managed to protect or restore the quality of areas of environmental concern
or other fragile areas while providing adequate levels of service to meet the needs of
citizens. This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public access,
land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities
and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) technical and financial resources; and, balancing the needs of year-round
and seasonal populations in planning for public facilities.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Local elected and appointed leadership, State and Federal elected representatives, Dare
County, and service providers will work to address this issue.
11. Intergovernmental Relations
The issue facing the Town is how to interact with local governments in the region and
State and Federal agencies on a routine basis to promote its interests and to make others
aware of its positions on local, regional, State, and Federal issues. This issue is related to
the following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility,
infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural
hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Regional, State, and/or Federal decision making processes that do not allow Town input
will be the main problem or obstacle that will prevent the Town from addressing this issue.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Local elected and appointed leadership, State and Federal elected representatives and
agencies, regional organizations, and membership/lobbying organizations such as the
North Carolina League of Municipalities will work together to address this issue.
12. Land Use Compatibility
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure that development and use of land resources is
consistent with the compatibility of the land to accommodate such development and uses.
This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public access, land use
compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and
services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
lack of local (Town) technical resources; and, private initiatives that may be contrary to
Town goals and efforts.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, and the development community will
work together to address this issue. The Town will acquire technical expertise as it
develops its staff and will use its police powers to ensure land use compatibility.
13. Natural Hazard Areas
The issue facing the Town is how to conserve protective functions of barrier dunes,
beaches, flood plains, and other coastal features. This issue is related to the following
State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying
capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water
quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) technical and financial resources; and, private initiatives that may be
contrary to Town goals and efforts.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, State agencies such as the North
Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal
Management, and Federal agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and
Environmental Protection Agency will help the Town address this issue.
14. Overhead Utility Lines
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure overhead utility lines are placed underground.
This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): land use compatibility,
infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural
hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) financial resources.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, North Carolina Dominion Power, and
telephone and television utility providers will work together to address this issue.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
15. Parking and Loading/Off-loading Areas
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure adequate parking and loading /off-loading
areas for commercial and public land uses. This issue is related to the following State
management topic(s): land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and
provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of land for additional parking and loading/off-loading areas; and, private property
rights.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, the business community, and the North
Carolina Department of Transportation will work together to address this issue.
16. Public Access
The issue facing the Town is obtaining State funding and studying the development of
public access facilities to maximize access to beach and sound waters while respecting
private property rights and the character, image, and development patterns of Duck.
This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public access, land use
compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and
services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of Town-owned land for public access sites; and, lack of local (Town) financial and
technical resources.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, and the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources will work together to address this issue.
17. Public Safety
The issue facing the town is how to ensure safety of residents and visitors--on land and in
water--and maintain the image of Duck as a family vacation destination. This issue is
related to the following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility,
infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural
hazard areas, and water quality.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) financial resources; and, major increases in the seasonal population
and lengthening of the traditional vacation season.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, Ocean Rescue, the Duck Police
Department, the Duck Volunteer Fire Department, Dare County Emergency Medical
Services. the North Carolina Highway Patrol (State Police), and the Dare County Sheriff’s
Department will work together to address this issue.
18. Redevelopment
The issue facing the Town is monitoring and considering redevelopment proposals for
consistency with Town land use and development goals. This issue is related to the
following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure
carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas,
and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) technical resources; and, private development initiatives that are
contrary to Town goals and efforts.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, community civic and business
associations and interest groups, and the development community will work together to
address this issue. The Town will acquire technical expertise as it develops its staff and
use its police powers to ensure redevelopment proposals are consistent with Town land
use and development goals.
19. Residential Development
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure the continuance of established residential
development patterns and ensure future development is in character with existing
development with regard to size, lot coverage, architectural design, and construction
materials and methods. This issue is related to the following State management topic(s):
public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of
public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) technical resources; and, private development initiatives that may be
contrary to Town goals and efforts.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, community civic and business
associations and interest groups, and the development community will work together to
address this issue. The Town will acquire technical expertise as it develops its staff and
use its police powers to ensure residential development proposals are consistent with
Town land use and development goals.
20. Septic Tank Use
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure that the performance of existing septic tank
systems is monitored; that existing systems are properly maintained; and, that proposed
systems are installed according to approved plans under the supervision of appropriate
agencies. This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): land use
compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and
services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
The Town should not encounter problems or obstacles addressing this issue.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
The Town will rely on the Dare County Health Department to assist in addressing this
issue.
21. Sexually Oriented Businesses
The issue facing the town is how to discourage and prohibit the establishment of sexually
oriented businesses within its borders. This issue is related to the following State
management topic(s): land use compatibility and infrastructure carrying capacity (and
provision of public facilities and services).
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Private development initiatives that are contrary to Town goals and efforts.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
The Town will enforce its ordinance (moratorium) regarding sexually oriented businesses.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
22. Solid Waste Management
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure to efficient, economical collection and
disposal of solid waste. This issue is related to the following State management topic(s):
land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities
and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Increased costs; and, greater demand on collection and disposal systems due to
increased seasonal population.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
The Town will continue to contract for solid waste collection and disposal services. The
Town’s elected and appointed leadership will monitor the demands placed on the system
to determine if and when changes are needed.
23. Storm Water Management
The issue facing the town is obtaining funding and technical assistance in developing a
storm water management plan and implementing infrastructure/system improvements.
This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): land use compatibility,
infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural
hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) financial and technical resources; extent and patterns of existing
development; private initiatives that may be contrary to Town goals and efforts; and,
balancing private property rights and the benefits of public storm water management
systems.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Local elected and appointed leadership, community civic and business associations and
interest groups, the development community, the North Carolina Department of
Transportation, and the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural
Resources, Division of Coastal Management will work together to address this issue.
Federal programs for drainage studies and improvements are available to the Town.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
24. Tourism
The issue facing the Town is how to promote itself as a family oriented tourist destination.
This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public access, land use
compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and
services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing

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Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Table of Contents
Duck, North Carolina i Community Planning Collaborative
DUCK, NORTH CAROLINA
~2003-2004 CAMA CORE LAND USE PLAN~
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents ...................................................................................... i
List of Exhibits ............................................................................................v
List of Appendices .................................................................................... vii
Executive Summary ................................................................................. viii
PHASE I
Chapter I: Introduction
A. This is Duck, North Carolina ............................................... I-1
B. Purpose and Authority to Plan ............................................. I-1
C. Planning Methodology........................................................ I-3
D. Citizen Participation and Intergovernmental Coordination ...... I-3
Chapter II: Concerns and Aspirations
A. Existing and Emerging Conditions....................................... II-1
1. Population Changes ............................................... II-2
2. Housing Trends ...................................................... II-2
3. Land Development.................................................. II-2
4. Water Quality ........................................................ II-2
5. Economic Conditions .............................................. II-3
6. Natural Resource Related Industries.......................... II-3
7. Transportation ........................................................ II-3
8. Potable Water ........................................................ II-3
9. Public Policies ........................................................ II-4
10. Public Safety........................................................... II-4
B. Management Topics and Issues, Problems, and Assets.......... II-4
1. Atlantic Ocean Shoreline......................................... II-5
2. Beach Driving......................................................... II-6
3. Beach Re-nourishment and Maintenance .................. II-6
4. Commercial Development ....................................... II-7
5. Community Appearance.......................................... II-7
6. Currituck Sound Shoreline ....................................... II-7
7. Development Design Standards................................ II-8
8. Duck Trail .............................................................. II-8
9. Federal Properties .................................................. II-9
10. Infrastructure Carrying Capacity and Provision of
Public Facilities and Services .................................... II-9
11. Intergovernmental Relations................................... II-10
12. Land Use Compatibility ......................................... II-10
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Table of Contents
Duck, North Carolina i i Community Planning Collaborative
13. Natural Hazard Areas ........................................... II-11
14. Overhead Utility Lines ........................................... II-11
15. Parking and Loading/Off-loading Areas.................. II-11
16. Public Access ....................................................... II-12
17. Public Safety......................................................... II-12
18. Redevelopment..................................................... II-13
19. Residential Development ....................................... II-13
20. Septic Tank Use.................................................... II-13
21. Sexually Oriented Businesses ................................. II-14
22. Solid Waste Management...................................... II-15
23. Storm Water Management..................................... II-15
24. Tourism ............................................................... II-16
25. Town Commons Areas .......................................... II-16
26. Transportation ...................................................... II-16
27. Uses of and Activities In and On Ocean
and Sound Waters ................................................ II-17
28. Water Quality ...................................................... II-17
C. Town Vision.................................................................... II-18
1. Desired General Physical Appearance and Form ..... II-19
2. General Land Use Plan Objectives ......................... II-19
Chapter III: Population, Housing, and Economy
A. Introduction..................................................................... III-1
B. Population....................................................................... III-1
C. Housing .......................................................................... III-4
D. Economy......................................................................... III-7
Chapter IV: Natural Systems
A. Natural Features .............................................................. IV-1
1. Areas of Environmental Concerns (AEC)
and Environmentally Fragile Areas........................... IV-1
2. Soil Characteristics ................................................ IV-2
3. Flood and Other Natural Hazard Areas ................... IV-3
4. Storm Surge Areas ................................................. IV-3
5. Non-Coastal Wetlands and Probable 404 Wetlands . IV-3
B. Environmental Conditions Composite ................................ IV-4
C. Environmental Conditions Assessment ................................ IV-6
1. Water Quality ....................................................... IV-6
a. Surface Water Quality ................................. IV-6
b. Shellfish Waters......................................... IV-13
c. Chronic Wastewater Treatment
System Malfunctions .................................. IV-14
d. Public Health Hazards................................ IV-14
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Table of Contents
Duck, North Carolina i ii Community Planning Collaborative
2. Natural Hazards .................................................. IV-14
a. Storm Hazards and Floods and
Wind Damage Estimates ............................ IV-14
b. Shoreline Erosion ...................................... IV-14
3. Natural Resources ............................................... IV-15
a. Natural Heritage Areas .............................. IV-15
b. Mineral Resource Areas and
Productive Soils ......................................... IV-16
Chapter V: Land Use and Development
A. Existing Land Use .............................................................. V-1
1. Land Use Categories............................................... V-1
2. Land Area Allocated to Each Land Use ..................... V-3
3. Land Use Conflicts and
Land Use – Water Quality Conflicts .......................... V-3
B. Development Trends and Projected Development Areas........ V-4
C. Projections of Future Land Needs........................................ V-4
Chapter VI: Town Facilities
A. Water Supply and Wastewater Treatment Systems ............... VI-1
B. Transportation Systems ..................................................... VI-3
C. Storm Water Systems ........................................................ VI-4
D. Other Facilities ................................................................ VI-5
Chapter VII: Land Suitability Analysis
A. Land Suitability Analysis Process………………………………VII-1
B. Characteristics of Land Suitable for Development..………….VII-2
C. Development Suitability Factors…....…………………………VII-2
D. Relative Importance of Land Suitability Factors and
Land Suitability Rating…………………………………………VII-3
E. Land Suitability Analysis Map…………..……………………. VII-4
Chapter VIII: Review of Current CAMA Land Use Plan Affecting Duck……VIII-1
PHASE II
Chapter IX: Plan for the Future
A. Introduction…. ................................................................ IX-1
B. Management Topics and Local Areas of Concern ............... IX-1
C. Goals, Objectives, and Policies ……………………………...IX-3
1. Introduction…………………………………………….IX-3
2. Issue Areas’ Goals, Objectives, and Policies............. IX-4
D. Future Land Use………………………………………………IX-29
1. Land Classification Scheme....................................IX-29
2. Future Land Use Map............................................IX-30
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Table of Contents
Duck, North Carolina i v Community Planning Collaborative
E. Policy Analysis................................................................IX-33
1. Consistency With Management Topics……………..IX-33
a. Consistency of Town Goals With
Management Topics…………………………IX-33
b. General Direction of Policies………………..IX-38
c. Consistency of Future Land Use Map and
Land Use Plan Requirements………………..IX-41
2. Impact of Town Policies on Management Topics…..IX-42
Chapter X: Tools for Managing Development
A. Guide for Land Use Decision-Making ................................. X-1
B. Existing Development Management Program ....................... X-3
C. Additional Tools.............................................................. X-10
1. Ordinances.......................................................... X-10
2. Capital Improvements Program.............................. X-11
3. Acquisition Program.............................................. X-11
4. Specific Projects to Reach Goals ............................ X-11
D. Action Plan and Schedule ................................................ X-12
Workshops and Meetings…………………………………………………….WS-1
Sources Consulted………….................................................................SC-1
Index…………………………………………………………………………...IN-1
Appendices……………………………………………………………………AP-1
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Table of Contents
Duck, North Carolina v Community Planning Collaborative
LIST OF EXHIBITS
Page No.
Chapter I: Introduction
Exhibit I-A Duck, North Carolina Regional Setting................................. I-2
Chapter III: Population, Housing, and Economy
Exhibit III-A Duck, North Carolina Selected Population Characteristics
of Dare County Census Tract 9701, Block Group 1. ........... III-2
Exhibit III-B Duck, North Carolina Estimated Peak Seasonal Population.. III-3
Exhibit III-C Duck, North Carolina Vacant and Improved Lots –
Recorded Subdivisions ...................................................... III-6
Chapter IV: Natural Systems
Exhibit IV-A Duck, North Carolina Interpretation of Natural Features
Development Compatibility ............................................... IV-4
Exhibit IV-B Duck, North Carolina Composite Natural Features
Analysis………................................................................ IV-5
Exhibit IV-C Duck, North Carolina Composite Environmental
Conditions Map............................................................... IV-7
Exhibit IV-D Duck, North Carolina Use Support Ratings (2000)
For Monitored and Evaluated Streams (miles) in
Pasquotank River Sub-basin 03-01-56............................... IV-9
Exhibit IV-E Duck, North Carolina Long Term Annual Shoreline
Change Rates Update Through 1992 .............................. IV-16
Chapter V: Land Use and Development
Exhibit V-A Duck, North Carolina Existing Land Use Categories ............. V-1
Exhibit V-B Duck, North Carolina Existing Land Use and Community
Facilities…….................................................................... V-2
Exhibit V-C Duck, North Carolina Existing Land Use Tabulations
(Estimate)……. .................................................................V-3
Chapter VII: Land Suitability Analysis
Exhibit VII-A Duck, North Carolina Relative Importance of Land
Suitability Factors ............................................................ VII-5
Exhibit VII-B Duck, North Carolina Relative Development Suitability
Ratings……… ................................................................ VII-6
Exhibit VII-C Duck, North Carolina Land Suitability Analysis Map………. VII-7
Chapter VIII: Review of Current CAMA Land Use Plan Affecting Duck
Exhibit VIII-A Duck, North Carolina Excerpt from 2002-2003 Dare
County CAMA Land Use Plan Update – Evaluation of
Existing Land Use Plan………………………………………..VIII-2
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Chapter IX: Plan for the Future
Exhibit IX-A Duck, North Carolina Summary of Land Use Plan
Management Topics......................................................... IX-2
Exhibit IX-B Duck, North Carolina Future Land Use Map..................... IX-32
Exhibit IX-C Duck, North Carolina Future Land Use Totals ................... IX-33
Exhibit IX-D Duck, North Carolina Consistency Review – Duck Goals
and Management Topics ................................................ IX-34
Exhibit IX-E Duck, North Carolina General Direction of Town
Policies………………………………………………………..IX-38
Exhibit IX-F Duck, North Carolina Policy Analysis Matrix – Town
Policies as Beneficial, Neutral, or Detrimental To State
Management Topic Benchmarks…………………………….IX-43
Chapter X: Tools for Managing Development
Exhibit X-A Duck, North Carolina Action Plan and Schedule ................ X-13
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LIST OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1 Dare County Water System Serving Duck, NC....................... A1-1
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
• In November 2001, the voters in Duck voted to incorporate and become Dare
County’s sixth municipality. On May 1, 2002, Duck officially became a town.
• The Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan (the Plan) is the Town’s first
independent land use plan. Before this effort, Duck had been included in land
use plan(s) developed by Dare County.
• The Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 (CAMA) establishes a cooperative
program between local governments and the State. Land use planning lies at
the center of local government’s involvement. Land Use Planning Guidelines
were adopted by the State to help localities prepare local plans. Duck’s land
use plan, when reviewed and certified by the North Carolina Coastal
Resources Commission (CRC), will become part of the North Carolina Coastal
Management Plan for the protection, preservation, orderly development, and
management of the coastal area of North Carolina.
• Land use planning is one of the ways a community looks into the future. The
land use plan will look ahead to the next 10 to 20 years. It will be reviewed
and updated every five years.
• Duck, while recognized by many people as a slow paced, coastal village and
family oriented vacation destination, is also a vibrant and growing community
in terms of both permanent and seasonal population. With just over 500
permanent residents, the Town’s peak population during the summer grows to
nearly 15,000. Indications are that Duck, like its Outer Banks neighbors, will
likely see increases in its permanent population as well.
• The Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan is one of the major tools
Duck will use to manage growth and development. The Plan will help the
Town ensure that new development and new land uses, as well as
redevelopment initiatives, are compatible with its coastal village atmosphere
and with the desires and aspirations of its residents and property owners. The
Plan will help the Town plan for essential services to meet the needs of its
permanent and seasonal population. Moreover, the Plan will help Duck
protect the essential coastal resources that help define the community’s life
style.
• The Plan will provide a solid foundation for day-to-day and long range
functions. Day-to-day functions relate to the Town’s administration of its
growth and development management ordinances and guidelines, and the
public’s understanding and use of these tools for decisions regarding their own
property with respect to land use and development. For the Planning Board
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and Town Council, the Plan will be a policy and decision guide on matters
concerning land use and development in Duck. The policies, objectives, and
future land use map included in the Plan will help guide Duck’s decisions
about ordinances and policies such as the zoning ordinance and development
design guidelines. The Plan will also be used as the Town Council makes
decisions on the Town’s capital and annual operating budgets and the
allocation of financial and personnel resources.
• The Town’s residents and property owners played a major role in the
development of the Plan, its goals, policies, and objectives, and the future land
use map. The Town, and the planning process, benefited greatly from the
efforts of an appointed Land Use Plan Committee which was available for
meetings on a monthly basis for nearly two years beginning in early 2003
through the end of 2004. All Committee meetings were open to the public. In
addition, opportunities for citizens to participate in the planning process
included: an initial public input session; community open houses and public
input sessions; Town Council and Planning Board meetings; presentations at
neighborhood and civic association meetings; and, distribution of a community
questionnaire. The questionnaire, which was distributed at public sessions and
at neighborhood and civic association meetings, was also posted on the
Town’s web site. The Town also posted the Plan on its website, made review
copies available to the public, and distributed copies to neighboring localities.
• The Plan was developed in two phases. Phase I consists of two basic
components:
1. Description of Town concerns and aspirations and a Town planning vision.
Analyzes the growth and development issues in Duck that emerged during
the citizen participation process. Describes a planning vision for the Town
that provides a foundation for effective land use and development goals,
policies, and objectives.
2. Analysis of existing and emerging trends. Provides the technical basis for
policy development: trends and forecasts of population, housing, and local
economy. Discusses opportunities and limitations presented by the Town’s
natural systems as well as its assets and some of the resources Duck may
use to meet its goals. Examines existing land uses and recent trends and
provides information on community facilities. An analysis of land suitability
for development synthesizes the information contained in the chapters
comprising this component.
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• Phase II of the Plan also consists of two basic components:
1. Land use goals, policies, and objectives. The Town’s land use and
development goals, policies, and objectives are found in Chapter IX Plan
for the Future. Goals, policies, and objectives for twenty-eight (28) issue
areas evolved from the Town’s planning vision and provide direction for
implementing the Plan. The Plan’s issue areas include five management
topics identified by the CRC (Public Access, Land Use Compatibility,
Infrastructure Carrying Capacity, Natural Hazard Areas, and Water
Quality). The Plan’s issue areas also include twenty-three local areas of
concern regarding ocean and sound shoreline management, development
and redevelopment activities, community appearance, community
infrastructure, public health and safety, transportation, parks and trails, and
tourism. The land use and development goals and policies related to these
issues provide guidance on decisions, programs, initiatives, and projects to
help the Town implement the Plan.
2. Tools for managing development. This Phase II component identifies tools
for managing development. It outlines Duck’s strategies and action plan
for implementing the Plan’s policies: development and/or amendment of
ordinances; implementation (or continuance) of land use and development
related programs and initiatives; capital investments; and, funding
resources to achieve identified goals.
• The Plan includes an analysis to determine the consistency of Duck’s land use
policies and the future land use map with the goals of the Coastal Area
Management Act and the Coastal Resources Commission’s land use
management topics. The analysis concludes that there is a high level of
consistency.
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Chapter I: Introduction
A. This is Duck, North Carolina
In November 2001, the voters of Duck voted to incorporate and become Dare County’s
sixth municipality. On May 1, 2002, the Town of Duck officially became a town. Duck is
located in the northernmost part of Dare County and borders the Town of Southern
Shores, Currituck County, the Currituck Sound, and the Atlantic Ocean. Access to Duck
is via NC 12 which is also called Duck Road within the Town limits. See EXHIBIT I-A. The
Town contains 2.32 square miles and is about 6 miles in length. The Town enjoys a
reputation as a cottage community, appealing to tens of thousands of tourists yearly, and
about 450 permanent residents.
The Town is preparing its first CAMA land use plan, having been included previously in
the plan(s) developed by Dare County. The Town uses a Council-Manager form of
government. The Town hired its first manager in November 2002, its first chief of police in
February 2003, and its planning director in May 2003.
B. Purpose and Authority to Plan
The Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 (CAMA) establishes a cooperative program
of coastal area management between local governments and the State. Land use
planning lies at the center of local government’s involvement. Subchapter 7B – Land Use
Planning Guidelines of the North Carolina Administrative Code, October 1989 (revised in
2003), were promulgated for the purpose of assisting localities with the preparation of
land use plans and sets forth standards for their review. Land use plans are submitted for
State review and certification. The land use plan, when certified by the North Carolina
Coastal Resources Commission (CRC), will become part of the North Carolina Coastal
Management Plan for the protection, preservation, orderly development, and
management of the coastal area of North Carolina.
Land use planning is one of the ways a community looks into the future to determine what
it wants to be and what it wants to look like. The land use plan will look ahead to the
next 10 to 20 years. It will be updated every five years. One of the key elements of the
plan is citizen participation. This ensures that the plan is truly designed by the community
for the community.
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A land use plan can describe how a community desires to develop physically,
economically, and socially. The plan functions much like a road map, conveying to
community leaders citizens’ plans and hopes for the future of the community. It also
conveys to the regional community how the town’s citizens and leaders expect to help
shape the future of the Town.
The land use plan includes a discussion of Town concerns and aspirations and existing
and emerging conditions. The State requires discussion of locally identified issues and
problems and assets the Town may face or use to achieve its goals. The land use plan
includes discussion of population, housing, and economy as well as natural systems and
existing land use and development. The land use plan also examines a variety of
environmental issues which impact development patterns and Town facilities. The land
use plan also plans for the future, spelling out Town land use and development goals and
policies. It also specifies tools the Town will use to manage growth and development and
craft its future physical appearance and form.
C. Planning Methodology
The Duck Land Use Plan Committee (Committee) serves as the body responsible for
guiding the CAMA land use plan development effort. The Committee receives assistance
from the Town Manager and the planning consulting firm Community Planning
Collaborative, Inc.
The Committee meets on a monthly basis or as needed throughout the project period on
the first Friday of each month. Meetings are held at the Duck Town Offices in the Council
Meeting Room in Duck 10:00 a.m. Meetings are open to the public and meeting times
are advertised in the local news media. In addition to a Committee orientation meeting
and an initial public information meeting, subsequent meetings of the Committee focus
on review and discussion of information gathered and analyses made. The Committee
reviews draft materials prepared by the planning consultant, assists in defining land use
and development issues and concerns, and provides general input.
D. Citizen Participation and Intergovernmental Coordination
According to 15 A NCAC Subchapter 7L, local governments receiving Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) funding for CAMA land use plan preparation,
must develop and implement a citizen participation plan. Local governments employ a
variety of educational efforts and participation techniques to assure that all
socioeconomic segments of the community and non-resident property owners have
opportunities to participate during CAMA land use plan development. Examples are
surveys or questionnaires, informational brochures or materials, community outreach, and
public information meetings.
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At the start of CAMA land use plan development, the Town Council adopted a citizen
participation plan. Interested citizens have opportunities to participate in the development
of the CAMA land use plan through oral and written comments as provided for in the
citizen participation plan. Copies of informational materials are made available at all
meetings of the Land Use Plan Committee. The citizen participation plan is available for
public review throughout the planning process.
The Town recognizes that citizen participation and citizen education must be made
available on a continuing basis. During and after the CAMA land use plan project, the
Town would like to educate citizens with respect to the importance of land use planning
and its effect of their quality of life; listen to citizens concerning issues important to them;
create opportunities to collaborate with citizens to achieve community consensus; and,
create a base of citizen support for implementing the land use plan.
Copies of the draft land use plan were provided for review and comment to Dare County,
Currituck County, and the town of Southern Shores. Written comments from Dare County
were received. Dare County’s comments relative to development along ocean and sound
areas were noted and discussed as a part of the planning process. Many of the County’s
suggestions/issue areas will be addressed further as the Town develops ocean and sound
side zoning overlays. Also, the Town will develop a hazard mitigation plan with a debris
management element during the planning period. No other written comments were
received within the specified 45-day review period. Municipal planners from many of the
Outer Banks communities meet monthly to discuss regional issues. No jurisdictional
issues relative to the land use plan have been identified.
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Chapter II: Concerns and Aspirations
This chapter provides general guidance and direction for the development of the Duck
Land Use Plan. Determining concerns and aspirations is one of the points where the
Town’s citizen participation process is directly linked to the land use planning process.
The citizen participation plan provides opportunities for stakeholders to express their
concerns and aspirations. Assessing Duck’s concerns and aspirations includes the
identification of existing and emerging conditions and key issues important to the Town.
Several issues--labeled by the State as management topics--must also be addressed
according to CAMA guidelines.
The vision statement is also a major component of the planning process. The vision
depicts in words what Duck is striving to become and serves as the starting point for the
creation (and implementation) of the land use plan. It recognizes trends and driving
forces that will affect the Town during the planning period and acknowledges the
concerns, opinions, and values identified by stakeholders and citizens. Vision statements
blend priority issues, driving forces, citizen values, and the preferences of the Town. The
vision helps to guide the development of the planning information base, short-term and
long-term policies, the future land use plan map, and the plan’s implementation
strategies. The vision also helps in describe the desired general physical appearance and
form Duck will take and forms the basis of the Town’s land use plan objectives.
A. Existing and Emerging Conditions
Some of the central issues influencing this land use plan and some of the dominant
growth related conditions that influence land use, development, water quality, and other
environmental concerns include: continuing pressure by the development community for
greater development densities (oversized single-family dwellings), public open space,
storm water management, beach erosion and dune loss, beach nourishment and dune
stabilization, provision of public accesses and related parking facilities, the proposed mid-
Currituck County bridge, and ensuring the present alignment of NC 12 through Duck.
Residential growth in Duck has continued at a steady pace since over the last ten years.
Since 1990, the percentage of year-round residents--as opposed to seasonal residents--
has risen slightly and thus the number of seasonal use structures has decreased.
Residential and commercial growth in Duck has continued at a steady pace.
Descriptions of existing and emerging conditions follow. These broad themes and trends
provided background and context for the identification of planning issues discussed later
in this chapter.
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1. Population Changes
Dramatic population fluctuations in Duck and the surrounding region occur as tourists
continue annual migrations to the area. Many observers feel that the total number of
visitors is increasing annually and that the summer season is not the only time Duck and
the rest of the Outer Banks are seeing large numbers of visitors. To many, the traditional
ten week summer tourist period now extends from the spring to Thanksgiving. Increasing
numbers of tourists can impact infrastructure and service delivery systems. Management
of resources such as water, open space, and the Duck Trail can become more
complicated as more persons use facilities.
2. Housing Trends
Housing patterns and types are generally established in Duck and the region. There are
still multiple isolated lots remaining throughout Town, although land prices have risen
dramatically. Single family detached homes still represent the vast majority of housing
found in Duck and the region. Housing values continue to increase. Demand for
housing is high while there is limited availability, particularly in the medium price ranges.
Also, the construction of private (residential) swimming pools continues to increase,
particularly as a part of new construction.
3. Land Development
Land development in Duck and the region could potentially exceed the capability of the
land to support it. There are still some building lots in various areas of Town and a
couple of isolated 2-3 acre tracts of undeveloped land. The residential development
pattern for Duck Village is established and redevelopment proposals may be the wave of
the future. While commercial areas are also established in the Duck Village area, there
are more than a few isolated commercial areas in Duck along NC 12.
4. Water Quality
In Duck and the region, water quality protection and issues related to uses that could
negatively impact water quality continue to be at the fore front. Contamination from
storm water runoff and/or septic tank system problems or failures is a threat. Weather
influenced changes in water quality can occur. Consistent methods of measuring changes
and fluctuations are needed. Currently, Dare County monitors Sound waters once a
month. Some people in Duck feel more frequent monitoring is needed.
The pros and cons associated with the development of a central (public) sewage
collection and treatment system are discussed from time to time in Outer Banks
communities. On the Outer Banks, the current level of use and dependence on septic
tank systems serves to limit development in some areas (due to poor soils and costs
associated with making the systems work properly). In effect, the lack of a central system
is a growth management tool for some localities. The presence of a central system could
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potentially open up some additional areas to development and increase pressure on
infrastructure systems. The monetary cost of developing a central system would be
substantial. The potential benefits to the environment of such a system must also be
weighed.
5. Economic Conditions
Generally, the economic condition and outlook in Duck and the region is very positive.
Duck businesses appear to be successful if not thriving. Employee turnover in shops and
eateries does not appear to be an issue as it may be in some Outer Banks jurisdictions.
6. Natural Resource Related Industries
Duck’s natural resources feature the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound. Businesses
(supply and rental shops) which cater to the use and enjoyment of these resources are
found in Town and throughout the region. Business activities in Duck are characterized by
their stability, diversity, and down-home feel.
7. Transportation
Traffic and transportation issues revolve around NC 12 and the intense development
occurring north of Duck which contributes to increasing traffic through Town. The lack of
parking and load/off-load areas contribute to safety and economic concerns in Duck.
Shops in Duck Village and The Sanderling attract many vehicles. Pedestrian-vehicular
interaction occurs at these and other areas throughout Town. The construction of a
bridge connecting the Currituck County mainland to its beaches will maintain the integrity
and vitality of Duck while providing safe and efficient access to areas north of Duck. This,
and perhaps maintenance of the status quo are viewed by some people in Duck as the
scenarios that will preserve the character of the Town. The widening and/or realigning
NC 12 would significantly damage and perhaps effectively end the essence and character
of Duck as a village -- now enjoyed by hundreds or residents, thousands of property
owners, and tens of thousands of visitors.
8. Potable Water
Potable water is supplied to Duck through the Dare County water system. At the time of
this writing, no formal contract has been executed between the Town and Dare County for
supplying potable water. Many people cite the over use of water by Duck residents and
visitors and the lack of conservation practices as problems that need to be addressed.
Wastewater is removed through septic tank systems. No plans to construct a central
sewer system (collecting and treating waste at a central plant) have been developed.
Duck should continually evaluate its options with respect to the provision of potable water
and participate and partner in any proposed plans to tap heretofore untapped resources
with its borders. When practicable, the Town should work with Dare County and
Currituck County with respect to the provision of potable water.
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9. Public Policies
Through July 1, 2003, Dare County assisted Duck with general planning duties. The
Town now has a planning director and its own zoning ordinance and is actively updating
and adopting ordinances and studying preferences with respect to other public policies to
control its own fate. The land use plan process will allow the Town to reassess its future
land use which will in turn lead to zoning ordinance reassessment and the study of
mechanisms such as design standards and the requirement of smart growth practices in
development and redevelopment proposals. Storm water management is problematic in
Duck and the region generally. A storm water management plan, perhaps on a multi-jurisdictional
scale is needed. The Town should examine its options with respect to
implementing a recycling program. The Town should also study its options with respect to
the acquisition of Federal properties that may become available and with respect to
acceptance of private lands donated for public purposes.
10. Public Safety
Public safety issues in Duck primarily revolve around the transportation system, most
importantly NC 12 and dead end private roads that are found throughout the Town. In
addition to NC 12, there were only seventeen state roads in the Town as of July 1, 2002.
Neighborhoods served by private roads can request that the Duck Police Department
enforce motor vehicle violations but other-wise, police patrols do not enforce such
violations on private roads. Widening NC 12 is not supported and the mid-county bridge
is, at best, years away. Duck has the benefit of its own police force and is served by an
excellent volunteer fire department. Education of visitors concerning local laws and
practices will also help with some safety issues. However, the geography of Duck, with
NC 12 being the only through transportation artery will continue to result in traffic conflict
situations.
B. Management Topics and Issues, Problems, and Assets
CAMA guidelines require a description of land use and development related issues in
terms of the Coastal Resources Commission’s major management topics: public access,
land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities
and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality. Growth and development related
issues identified by the Town should be cognizant of these management topics. Issues
identified by Duck include:
Atlantic Ocean Shoreline
Beach Driving
Beach Re-nourishment and Maintenance
Commercial Development
Community Appearance
Currituck Sound Shoreline
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Development Design Standards
Duck Trail
Federal Properties
Intergovernmental Relations
Overhead Utility Lines
Parking and Loading/Off-loading Areas
Public Safety
Redevelopment
Residential Development
Septic Tank Use
Sexually Oriented Businesses
Solid Waste Management
Storm Water Management
Tourism
Town Commons Area
Transportation
Uses of and Activities In and On Ocean and Sound Waters
Management topics and Town issues are examined relative to problems or obstacles that
may prevent the Town from achieving goals. Problem statements are not intended to
state or imply solutions; that comes later in the planning process. Issues are also
examined relative to assets that may be available to Duck to assist it in addressing its
goals. Assets are opportunities or resources (features, facilities, organizations, and
programs) that can be cited by the plan to help the Town address its goals.
1. Atlantic Ocean Shoreline
The issue facing the Town is how to preserve and protect this resource and ensure future
generations are able to enjoy its beauty and bounty and can continue to use the beach
and water for active and passive recreation and leisure activities. This issue is related to
the following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility,
infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural
hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) resources (technical and financial); magnitude of effort required to
police, manage, preserve, and protect the ocean beach and waters; and, degradation of
the resource resulting from litter, pollution, and undesirable activities conducted on and
off-shore.
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Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
State, County, and Federal agencies, programs, and regulations are the main assets
available to the Town to address this issue. The Town will enforce its ordinance
prohibiting beach fires and open burning.
2. Beach Driving
The issue facing the Town is how to regulate beach driving. This issue is related to the
following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure
carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas,
and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
The Town should not encounter problems or obstacles addressing this issue.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
The Town will rely on its police department to enforce the beach driving ordinance thereby
addressing this issue. The make-up of beach sand in the Duck area is largely shale which
does makes beach driving more treacherous and serves to deter some drivers who might
otherwise drive on the beach.
3. Beach Re-nourishment and Maintenance
The issue facing the Town is staying informed and involved relative to Federal, State,
and/or regional studies and initiatives concerning beach re-nourishment and
maintenance. This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public
access, land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public
facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
The Town should not encounter problems or obstacles addressing this issue.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens and local elected and appointed leadership will assist the Town as it monitors
beach re-nourishment studies and initiatives.
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4. Commercial Development
The issue facing the Town is how to support and direct the placement of commercial
development in areas zoned for such activities and to encourage local support and
patronage of Town businesses. This issue is related to the following State management
topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and
provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Business closures/failures; divergent/conflicting interests within the business community;
and, local, regional, and/or national economic downturns.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, and the business community will work
together to address this issue.
5. Community Appearance
The issue facing the town is how to remain aesthetically pleasing while maintaining its
coastal village image and charm. This issue is related to the following State management
topic(s): land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public
facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue:
Lack of development design standards; private initiatives that may be contrary to Town
goals and efforts; and, lack of local (Town) financial and technical resources.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, community civic and business
associations and interests groups, and the development community will work together to
address this issue. The Town will acquire technical expertise as it develops its staff and
will use its police powers to ensure desirable development patterns in Town.
6. Currituck Sound Shoreline
The issue facing the Town is how to preserve, protect, and enhance this resource and
ensure future generations are able to enjoy its beauty and bounty and can continue to use
it for passive and active recreation and leisure activities. This issue is related to the
following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure
carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas,
and water quality.
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Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) financial and technical resources; magnitude of effort required to
police, manage, preserve, and protect the Sound’s shoreline and waters; degradation of
the resource resulting from litter, pollution, and undesirable activities conducted on and
off-shore; and, Sound erosion
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
State and Federal agencies, programs, and regulations are the main assets available to
the Town to address this issue. The introduction of grasses and other natural stabilizing
treatments may help the situation.
7. Development Design Standards
The issue facing the Town is how to develop and utilize development design standards to
continue and enhance its desired development character. This issue is related to the
following State management topic(s): land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying
capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water
quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) technical resources; and, private initiatives that may be contrary to
Town goals and efforts.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, and the development community will
work together to address this issue. The Town will acquire technical expertise as it
develops its staff and will use its police powers to ensure desirable development in Town.
8. Duck Trail
The issue facing the Town is how to continue to maintain and enhance the Duck Trail to
provide pedestrians and cyclists a safe alternative to walking and riding on public and
private roads and to encourage the Trail’s use. This issue is related to the following State
management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying
capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water
quality.
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Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
User apathy, ignorance, or contempt for established safety guidelines; funding for
maintenance and major repairs if needed; and, increased traffic along NC 12 and
potential for accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens (particularly Duck Trail volunteers), community civic and business associations
and interest groups, homeowners associations, elected and appointed leadership, the
North Carolina Department of Transportation, and the business community will work
together to address this issue. Federal programs for drainage studies and improvements
are available to the Town.
9. Federal Properties
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure that Federal properties are
used in ways that are consistent with the Town’s established growth patterns and image
and to ensure that the Town has the opportunity to purchase all of part of Federal
properties within its borders for use as a commons area or for other public uses. This
issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public access, land use
compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and
services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Potential for Federal decision makers to disregard or act contrary to Town goals and
efforts, if/when properties are being considered for land use changes or during program
development and implementation.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, community civic and business associations and interest groups, local elected and
appointed leadership, and State and Federal elected representatives will work together to
address this issue.
10. Infrastructure Carrying Capacity and Provision of Public Facilities
and Services
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure that public systems and services are sized,
located, and managed to protect or restore the quality of areas of environmental concern
or other fragile areas while providing adequate levels of service to meet the needs of
citizens. This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public access,
land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities
and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) technical and financial resources; and, balancing the needs of year-round
and seasonal populations in planning for public facilities.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Local elected and appointed leadership, State and Federal elected representatives, Dare
County, and service providers will work to address this issue.
11. Intergovernmental Relations
The issue facing the Town is how to interact with local governments in the region and
State and Federal agencies on a routine basis to promote its interests and to make others
aware of its positions on local, regional, State, and Federal issues. This issue is related to
the following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility,
infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural
hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Regional, State, and/or Federal decision making processes that do not allow Town input
will be the main problem or obstacle that will prevent the Town from addressing this issue.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Local elected and appointed leadership, State and Federal elected representatives and
agencies, regional organizations, and membership/lobbying organizations such as the
North Carolina League of Municipalities will work together to address this issue.
12. Land Use Compatibility
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure that development and use of land resources is
consistent with the compatibility of the land to accommodate such development and uses.
This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public access, land use
compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and
services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
lack of local (Town) technical resources; and, private initiatives that may be contrary to
Town goals and efforts.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, and the development community will
work together to address this issue. The Town will acquire technical expertise as it
develops its staff and will use its police powers to ensure land use compatibility.
13. Natural Hazard Areas
The issue facing the Town is how to conserve protective functions of barrier dunes,
beaches, flood plains, and other coastal features. This issue is related to the following
State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying
capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water
quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) technical and financial resources; and, private initiatives that may be
contrary to Town goals and efforts.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, State agencies such as the North
Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal
Management, and Federal agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and
Environmental Protection Agency will help the Town address this issue.
14. Overhead Utility Lines
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure overhead utility lines are placed underground.
This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): land use compatibility,
infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural
hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) financial resources.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, North Carolina Dominion Power, and
telephone and television utility providers will work together to address this issue.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
15. Parking and Loading/Off-loading Areas
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure adequate parking and loading /off-loading
areas for commercial and public land uses. This issue is related to the following State
management topic(s): land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and
provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of land for additional parking and loading/off-loading areas; and, private property
rights.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, the business community, and the North
Carolina Department of Transportation will work together to address this issue.
16. Public Access
The issue facing the Town is obtaining State funding and studying the development of
public access facilities to maximize access to beach and sound waters while respecting
private property rights and the character, image, and development patterns of Duck.
This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public access, land use
compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and
services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of Town-owned land for public access sites; and, lack of local (Town) financial and
technical resources.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, and the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources will work together to address this issue.
17. Public Safety
The issue facing the town is how to ensure safety of residents and visitors--on land and in
water--and maintain the image of Duck as a family vacation destination. This issue is
related to the following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility,
infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural
hazard areas, and water quality.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) financial resources; and, major increases in the seasonal population
and lengthening of the traditional vacation season.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, Ocean Rescue, the Duck Police
Department, the Duck Volunteer Fire Department, Dare County Emergency Medical
Services. the North Carolina Highway Patrol (State Police), and the Dare County Sheriff’s
Department will work together to address this issue.
18. Redevelopment
The issue facing the Town is monitoring and considering redevelopment proposals for
consistency with Town land use and development goals. This issue is related to the
following State management topic(s): public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure
carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural hazard areas,
and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) technical resources; and, private development initiatives that are
contrary to Town goals and efforts.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, community civic and business
associations and interest groups, and the development community will work together to
address this issue. The Town will acquire technical expertise as it develops its staff and
use its police powers to ensure redevelopment proposals are consistent with Town land
use and development goals.
19. Residential Development
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure the continuance of established residential
development patterns and ensure future development is in character with existing
development with regard to size, lot coverage, architectural design, and construction
materials and methods. This issue is related to the following State management topic(s):
public access, land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of
public facilities and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) technical resources; and, private development initiatives that may be
contrary to Town goals and efforts.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Citizens, local elected and appointed leadership, community civic and business
associations and interest groups, and the development community will work together to
address this issue. The Town will acquire technical expertise as it develops its staff and
use its police powers to ensure residential development proposals are consistent with
Town land use and development goals.
20. Septic Tank Use
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure that the performance of existing septic tank
systems is monitored; that existing systems are properly maintained; and, that proposed
systems are installed according to approved plans under the supervision of appropriate
agencies. This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): land use
compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and
services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
The Town should not encounter problems or obstacles addressing this issue.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
The Town will rely on the Dare County Health Department to assist in addressing this
issue.
21. Sexually Oriented Businesses
The issue facing the town is how to discourage and prohibit the establishment of sexually
oriented businesses within its borders. This issue is related to the following State
management topic(s): land use compatibility and infrastructure carrying capacity (and
provision of public facilities and services).
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Private development initiatives that are contrary to Town goals and efforts.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
The Town will enforce its ordinance (moratorium) regarding sexually oriented businesses.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
22. Solid Waste Management
The issue facing the Town is how to ensure to efficient, economical collection and
disposal of solid waste. This issue is related to the following State management topic(s):
land use compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities
and services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Increased costs; and, greater demand on collection and disposal systems due to
increased seasonal population.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
The Town will continue to contract for solid waste collection and disposal services. The
Town’s elected and appointed leadership will monitor the demands placed on the system
to determine if and when changes are needed.
23. Storm Water Management
The issue facing the town is obtaining funding and technical assistance in developing a
storm water management plan and implementing infrastructure/system improvements.
This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): land use compatibility,
infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and services), natural
hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing this issue include:
Lack of local (Town) financial and technical resources; extent and patterns of existing
development; private initiatives that may be contrary to Town goals and efforts; and,
balancing private property rights and the benefits of public storm water management
systems.
Features, facilities, organizations, and programs that may assist the Town include:
Local elected and appointed leadership, community civic and business associations and
interest groups, the development community, the North Carolina Department of
Transportation, and the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural
Resources, Division of Coastal Management will work together to address this issue.
Federal programs for drainage studies and improvements are available to the Town.
Duck 2003-2004 CAMA CORE Land Use Plan Chapter II
Duck, North Carolina Community Planning Collaborative
24. Tourism
The issue facing the Town is how to promote itself as a family oriented tourist destination.
This issue is related to the following State management topic(s): public access, land use
compatibility, infrastructure carrying capacity (and provision of public facilities and
services), natural hazard areas, and water quality.
Problems or obstacles that may inhibit the Town from addressing